First listen to Don McLean - Vincent (REACTION)

[@patcavanaugh4941]

In 1991, the St. Louis Art Museum held an exhibit of Van Gogh paintings. My mom, who would die 4 months later of cancer, was unfamiliar with his work, so I bought tickets for her, my son, and myself. When we got to the museum, it was understandably packed, and parking was difficult even on an average day. I was on the verge of giving up as Mom was much too weak to walk any distance, but as we drove by the building to try to find parking on the other side, a spot opened up directly in front of the door. It was difficult for her, but she made it up the stairs. I know she did this for me, art was not her thing (dancing was ❤). We spent a considerable amount of time in the gallery. Mom had tears in her eyes. Her voice broke as she said, "I've never seen anything so beautiful. Thank you." She talked about the depth of the paint, applied with a knife ("I can see his hand moving"), and the emotion it evoked. She told me later that night that she was grateful to have seen it all before she died, and she wondered what other wonderful things she had missed. It's a bittersweet memory. This song washes over me like a flood of my own tears. Thanks for your reaction. It made me think of the first time I heard it myself.

[@joyceharkin3641]

What a wonderful memory. I'm glad your mom got to see the paintings.

[@jaysonbiggs8979]

One of the most beautiful songs ever written.

[@Alex-dh2cx]

100% agree with you. It's not just the sound and the lyrics, the sentiment behind this song is incredibly beautiful.

[@jodidavis6595]

Agreed 1000%

[@lizableu4637]

@@jodidavis6595 I agree too. The song is inundated with the same intense passion as the artwork by Mr. Van Gogh. BRILLIANT!

[@susanmurray7654]

Just saw him this year Its not sad it's melancholy theres a difference yes.

[@gomezaddams4347]

One of the most impressive attributes of this song is how McClean’s lyrics capture in words the qualities that make Van Gogh’s paintings so eternal. Describing his eyes as “china blue” for example makes that mental image almost physical. He was/is a masterful songwriter.

[@loadedorygun]

it’s one artist trying to describe the beauty of another artist, and it’s magical.

[@jimmycranier3668]

130 years after Vincents life has past , I cry as this song is such a beautiful piece of art in itself as a tribute to a man who never knew how great he was.

[@mkg59]

I hesitated in posting this because after finding you...and viewing your reactions, and the thoughts of your subscribers, i feel like I am entering a gun fight with a slingshot. Daniel, you are the second young man I have seen do reactions who actually put the time in to really understand what they're watching. Whoever said you can't teach an old dog new tricks is wrong. I'm 60 and have learned to look at music a different way thanks to you and your subscribers.

[@theblackcat5416]

Great comment @Mark Gram ! My thoughts exactly!

[@DiconDissectionalReactions]

Welcome my friend and fellow traveler through the etherwebs... I'm glad you're enjoying the videos, thanks for watching!

[@georgewodicka4839]

And as you see, Daniel takes the time to read and react to EVERY single comment, no matter the volume of comments or the time it takes.

[@daveking9393]

Completely agree. He has quickly become the first place I go when given the choice of his vs others content. Daniel even has this old dog viewing songs or groups that never appealed to me just to learn more and give it one more try... VERY much enjoying his journey! I guess it is our journey too in that we learn so much while hearing the tunes that framed our lives.

[@Hartlor_Tayley]

David King you said some very nice things. Daniel does a great job and approaches these songs with an open mind and enthusiasm, appreciating what’s great about each song and artist. Most of us missed a good deal of great music back in the day due to limited access and radio playlists but now we can all enjoy these songs with fresh ears.

[@jamessunset4664]

I'm no artist, in fact I have few talents. But I'm very ill, in the hospital more than not. The end is near for me. This song is a beautiful tribute to an artist, a soul who struggled with his very existence. I can relate. I'm at peace with my demise. Let me float among the stars listening to beautiful music.

[@sstylesfabs]

Beautifully put.

[@terrimobley6067]

Thank you for sharing!!

[@GEGE-bx3fj]

No words will suffice. Be still dear sir. Peace is there if u know where 2 find it....and sounds like u have Go sweetly into the gentle night .... fr across the waters Canada 🇨🇦 🐥🐥🐥hugs

[@reha1066]

Beautifully said.

[@margaretanscombe730]

We should all only ever want peace for our souls, whether in this world or the next. You are blessed to know this, and I pray that Light and Love will surround you always. God bless...🙏🏻❤️

[@SandySilvie36]

"They did not listen they did not know how..." = "His work was not really appreciated in his time."

[@caspervanelli6502]

He sold only one painting during his life.

[@jasonmoore7223]

@@caspervanelli6502 and wasn’t that to his brother Theo?

[@loveandlight8533]

Says it all sadly enough ♥️

[@jmrx12]

@@jasonmoore7223 actually it was his brother Theo who sold Van Gogh's one (pre-death) painting, "Red Vineyard at Arles".

[@CharlesDunkley]

Vincent van Gogh's paintings need to be seen in person. No digital reproduction can really convey their power. If you have the opportunity to see any of them in a museum, don't pass it up. I was lucky to grow up in and around NYC and spent many an hour at the Met among Vincent's art. It's a unique experience. His painting technique, with deep, harsh, brush strokes are what makes his paintings a completely different experience when seen in person. As for this song, it's a favorite on an album filled with fantastic songs. Every song on this album is worth many listens. Lots of journeys here.

[@Musicdok]

Too true. I am Dutch, and have stood in front of many of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings present in our country. And this album by Don McLean is masterful

[@barblessable]

@@Musicdok YES I've been to Amsterdam twice and went to the museum both times quite an experience the second time was best as much of his work was out on loan to a gallery in Japan the first time, also second visit was enhanced by visiting coffee shop before hand, also saw Don McCean here in UK ,JUST HIM AND HIS GUITAR, for 2 hours , he was soooo good ,you could hear a pin drop when he sang Vincent ,spellbinding.

[@Sherdelune]

I saw an exhibition in Philadelphia and it was spectacular. Some of the paintings made me feel like crawling right into them or touching them. Just beautiful.

[@Yosef1952]

Van Gogh is my favorite artist. I've been lucky enough to visit the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam a couple of times. Haven't heard this song in years. I always used to get choked up hearing it. I guess I still do.

[@mmay2669]

Roberta Flack's song "Killing me Softly" is about how this song and Don McLean's music affected her. That one is amazing too.

[@djeasylis5311]

Wow I didn’t know that

[@mkg59]

You learn something new everyday. Thanks M May!

[@stevemd6488]

Agree never knew that. Love Roberta btw, very few voices these days compare to what we were given back then.

[@jaysonbiggs8979]

"Killing Me Softly" is not about a song. Its about Don McLean the person. Someone (her manager?) went to see him perform. He was so impressed that he wrote the song about him

[@itsme-rt7nz]

I read that the songwriters of Killing Me Softly (Fox and Gimbel) came up with the music and lyrics, and when the original recording artist (Lori Lieberman) read them, she said it reminded her of when she went to see a Don McLean performance. I didn't see anything about Starry Starry Night.

[@cynthiadepriest8192]

He was one of the first to paint the common man at labor. Most were painting portraits of people looking prosperous.

[@stuarthastie6374]

Cynthia DePriest Pieter Bruegel the Elder....? But Vincent painting with feeling, incorporated himself in the subject.

[@jimmyfortrue3741]

Vincent was a huge fan of Jean-Francois Millet and his paintings of the working poor and field workers. Part of his inspiration.

[@sujujewel2639]

They don’t write music like this anymore. Beautiful poetry!

[@timothygasper406]

Oh yeah. One of my favorite songs of all time. I grew up with people like Don McLean....when songs and music had meaning, emotion, depth and came from the heart. Not like much of the swill we have today. The lyrics....extremely profound, with meaning and sincerity. And just listen to the music. They knew exactly when to bring in the violins. That was the greatest era for music. In my humble opinion.

[@ftumschk]

One of the greatest songs ever written. The lyrics, music and McLean's delivery are almost perfect.

[@emanonfox1709]

If you're a Doctor Who fan, there is an episode called "Vincent and the Doctor" (Matt Smith/11th Doctor) worth a watch, one of my favorite episodes. "Vincent" was one of the first songs I learned to play on the piano as a very young kid, as the melody of the refrain can be played with "all the black keys"

[@Akamai2HI]

Great episode.

[@zoniekat]

One of of only a couple episodes I've seen. Interesting.

[@davidwoodard4113]

I cry every time I watch that scene of the doctor taking Vincent to the present.

[@Akamai2HI]

@@davidwoodard4113 Spoilers!

[@ianb9028]

From the Dr Who episode "To me, Van Gogh is the finest painter of them all. Certainly the most popular great painter of all time. The most beloved. His command of color, the most magnificent. He transformed the pain of his tormented life into ecstatic beauty. Pain is easy to portray but to use your passion and pain to portray the ecstasy and joy and magnificence of our world. No one had ever done it before. Perhaps no one ever will again. To my mind, that strange wild man who roamed the fields of Provence, was not only the world's greatest artist but also one of the greatest men who ever lived."

[@annedunne4526]

If you ever get to Amsterdam, go to the museum dedicated to him. The lyrics of Don McLean's song describe many of the paintings you can see there. It's a beautiful tribute to a man who left us priceless depictions of his world but whose life was miserable. He died in poverty, never knowing how much his paintings would be worth. We can thank his brother for preserving them. 1890 is not long ago. It's when my grandparents were born.

[@iainweller452]

Anne Dunne I’ve been to that museum it’s an amazing place

[@sharonm6262]

Thank you. On my list now.

[@westzed23]

It was wonderful to see Vincent's paintings there. If you get to see his actual paintings, you can see the thickness of the paint and the swirls of the brushstrokes.

[@charlesburris6314]

Vincent's prolific streak in his last 2 years was a cry. Pain, frustration, solitude. But no one heard him then.

[@mikephalen3162]

Great song. There is truth to the observation that many geniuses are tortured souls. They pay a terrible price for their particular gift.

[@presleycheshire3968]

What I gather from the song is that beauty in people is often overlooked or never seen by the enormity of life. People who are different, odd, troubled, longing, broken hearted, are blurred out. The beauty in Vincent had no outlet but the visions he gave us on canvas. His society had different views and could not see. It was up to the rest of the world to catch up. I believe he truly was a man out of time, and not just his own. Don's guitar is the perfect tone to tell this tale his voice is beautiful in it's care and emotion. Love. "How you tried to set them free. They would not listen, they're not listening still, perhaps they never will..." Love.

[@seabreeze8894]

Exactly. And even when no one else sees, God sees. Vincent was able to see (love) what (who) sometimes only God sees (loves).

[@westzed23]

Well said!

[@TheDivayenta]

Beautifully said!

[@bretttownsend6495]

I’m also just turned 60 I realize my age doesn’t matter but what. I didn’t expect was someone your age was able to have the emotions I saw in your face as you listened I’ve had the feelin the young people today were stirip of feelin and wouldn’t get it I was so wrong I’d be proud to. Have had a son or grand son like you don’t change

[@charlesburris6314]

Distraction from tears is common but futile. Let feeling flow. Never shy from your humanity.

[@ocwill]

His reactions were as beautiful as the song and Vincent’s paintings. Bless you, my young friend, for this video.

[@MadameRaven1]

Everyone needs to watch the movie Loving Vincent! Gorgeous and touching. Every frame is an oil painting on canvas. Every frame!

[@CharCanuck14]

I was going to mention Loving Vincent but you beat me to it Raven. Incredible film!

[@RichieRich20000]

Agreed.

[@LoopORama]

Have you seen Lust for Life with Kirk Douglas as Van Gogh? It's pretty crazy.

[@barbarabrafford7102]

I saw it a few times. What an extraordinary little film.

[@eileendobbs8574]

Vincent and Theo is also a good movie with Tim Roth as Vincent. Its about how Theo tried so hard to support Vincent and help his poor tortured soul.

[@John-yt3to]

"The silver thorned of bloody rose, lied crushed & broken on the virgin snow" is one of his under admired painting.

[@sidecardog5244]

Thanks for the play. A poetic masterpiece!

[@dalem8332]

This is a masterpiece! Don McLean is a brilliant songwriter. So many only know him for American Pie but he has written so many incredible songs. An incredible artist. This song moves me to tears every time l hear it. 🎼🎶🎵🇨🇦

[@JamesSavik]

Great choice. I never understood this song when I was a kid but I remember hearing it. Too soft for my metal ears. Later, after I knew who Vincent was and had a little life experience under my belt, I heard it again and understood. Lesson learned. Sometimes a song just can't speak to you unless you are ready.

[@JFinSD2]

I think you make a valid point. It is called living....once you have more years under your belt you start to appreciate stuff you didn't 20 or 30 years ago.

[@tranquil65]

I think of my daughter listening to this song. My daughter took her life so I say, sable, 'this life was never meant for one as beautiful as you'

[@joelliebler5690]

Good does not come close to describe this legendary singer songwriter who has a few tunes that will live on forever!👍🏻❤️☮️🇺🇸

[@stevemccormack9948]

"Through eyes that see the world and can't forget" He loved the world so much he just wanted to express it. The second you hear the opening words you know who its about. The starry night. As I always like to say - the universe belongs to Vincent.

[@Hartlor_Tayley]

Great reaction. Song made me cry. A beautiful and tragic story.

[@RedDawnRocker]

Daniel, you're 100% right on how artists were truly loved/revered/respected until after the were gone. Now, it's a whole new ballgame as of the last century. We tend to share our favorite art more openly introducing to others who may have never had the chance to see it before. We can now openly admit to our feelings on an artists work and how comfortable or even uncomfortable it makes us. It's no longer about being indifferent about an artist until after they die to praise their work. For some, it's classic art in the styles of Van Gogh, Renoir or DaVinci for others more unusual art like the works of Warhol that make us feel. For some, they find their love in the works of animation artists, fantasy/sci-fi artists, comic book artists or even commercial artists. There is art love for artists, alive or passed thanks to the internet and social media. We now know exactly where to go to see specific artists work whether live in person or through internet based interactive museums or even auction sites where we can obtain our own prints of the work. Myself, I find myself mostly lost in fantasy/sci-fi fandom art such as that of The Brothers Hildebrandt (Greg and Tim, we lost Tim unfortunately, but we still have Greg), Frank Frazetta, Julie Bell, Boris Vallejo, Jim Steranko, John Stephens, Kirk Reinert, James McCarthy, Alex Ross, Al Rio, Mike Deodato, Adam Hughes, Amanda Conner among many many others. On the other side of the coin, I love artists who can bring landscapes, city lights and night skies to life as well as optical illusion art. What this song brings to heart to me is the fact that if Van Gogh had lived in our time, he would have felt the love and acceptance of others and may not have taken his life. He would've felt the love that made him feel alive and not dead inside.

[@lynette.]

Love the lyrics to this everything just flows like his brush strokes.

[@sfbayareagirl]

Beautiful song, stellar reaction. Tribute was paid to him bc he was a excruciatingly brilliant artist. His Art was incredible, for one reason bc artists were just beginning a new style of painting and he was prominent (as well as under appreciated) in his field and era. Van Gogh’s always been one of my favorite artists. Check out the book Lust For Life on him, as well as Letters To Theo.

[@martinhafner2201]

"Starry Night" was a specific painting by Vincent Van Gogh. Van Gough was not acknowledged in his time and his life was very hard. His painting style tended to emphasize the subjective experience of viewing nature, rather than an objective photographic view. So the stars in "Starry Night" looked more like flaming flowers and he showed the swirling feel as your eyes move around from star group to star group. He had a failed love affair, which is why he cut off part of his ear to send to her. I don't think he achieved enough status to attract her, so he ended up killing himself. And that is just the small amount I picked up without actually studying him.

[@danieljodrey709]

I listened to this song every night for a month before bed when I was 17.

[@DQ_Mine]

♡

[@emanonfox1709]

Post-impressionism is all about emotion, depicting what you see and "feel", not what you see and "think", as a rejection of more intellectual "realism" and even the Impressionists who were more into nature as opposed to human, emotional experiences.

[@fpanpurrzachariah6290]

Are ye saying we are warped, Laddie?

[@hyperreed]

His art now sells art record prices in the multi-millions. So he is appreciated now.

[@7Sandie]

One of the heroes that isn't talked about very often is Theo, Vincents brother who financially supported him, Just imagine if he never did that we might not have had the beautiful body of work Vincent left us! thank you for mentioning Theo!

[@er5406]

This song brought me to Vincent’s famous work “Starry Starry Night”. Then into the rest of his work. He was a genius. As an aside there is an episode of “Dr Who” that is worth watching.

[@MissAstorDancer]

The VvG Painting you refer to is actually just "Starry Night". Vincent's works are all just incredibly beautiful! Just do search in Google Images!!!!

[@snakelite61]

The Doctor Who episode, Vincent and the Doctor, is in the 5th season of Nu Who with the 11th Doctor. One of the best episodes.

[@snakelite61]

That episode is thematically the same as this song. It's one of my favorite episodes.

[@jr8870]

It’s believed that Van Gogh’s “craziness” was actually caused by his long term exposure to the lead and cadmium in his paints... Heavy metal toxicity causes central nervous system symptoms, resulting in hallucinations, distorted perception of shapes and colors, as well as tremors, numbness and seizures... This would explain the “abstract” quality of his work...

[@stuarthastie6374]

jr8870 magic mushrooms sometimes have the effect of altering visual perception. I’ve heard some have traces of cyanide. Siberian Shame used to drink the uri of reindeer that had been fed with magic mushrooms and wonder if this would filter out the toxins.

[@jamestaylor2920]

I have little doubt that heavy metals in the paint played a roll, but the the diagnosis has a significant hereditary component. There are many possible elements of exacerbation. Radon gas and other naturally occurring sources of radiation. Parasitic infections and the depressant qualities of alcohol. Occam's razor would indicate Clinical Depression because he was depressed. However, several Nobel Prizes were won by scientists that simply ignored Friar William of Ockham's advice. There doesn't seem to be any documentation of the physical manifestations associated with heavy metal poisoning (hair, teeth, finger nails). He suffered serious bouts of depression before becoming an artist. The experts are still arguing their pet theories and there doesn't appear to be a method to definitively prove one or the other.

[@ericlevi5729]

Dude! Your analysis and reaction is brilliant very informative without distracting from the music. You obviously are intuitive and creative....KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE BALL

[@cynthiadepriest8192]

The great ones transcend space and time.

[@douglascollier7767]

If you ever have an opportunity to see his work face to face, do so. To stand in the presence of a sunflower or a night of stars is life changing.

[@theblackcat5416]

Thanks for doing this reaction! It is really fun when you choose a song that I have totally forgotten about ! And yes, "American Pie" would be fun if only for a lyric dissection ! ✌❤🌻😷🎶

[@lilamuzik3385]

I went and saw the Van Gough collection. It was so affecting. I'll never forget the pictures...and pencil drawings

[@sassymessmess9110]

Such a beautiful song.

[@willcool713]

Doing a lyrical dissection of American Pie would be a masterwork. There are very clear concrete references, but the gestalt has its own meanings and psychological symbolism. The full meaning of the song has had endless dissection.

[@jtoland2333]

Van Gogh wasn't insane, but if he'd lived today, he would likely be diagnosed as bipolar. Like so many people I suffer from this condition. Untreated, it is a painful condition that puts the sufferer on a rollercoaster of highs and lows with very few times of feeling contentment. I don't think I would be alive if I didn't have medication. I know all too well how poor Vincent suffered, and countless people whose names we will never know.

[@annmitchell4663]

Dont know if you have ever heard of a TV program called Dr Who...? There is a fabulous clip of one scene about Van Gogh...just look for Dr Who, Van Gogh museum scene on YT..its very touching.

[@WireWeHere]

Watch the episode.. touching.

[@fishhookism]

J Toland I always thought the lead in his paints might have caused his insanity. I did not know he was bipolar.

[@WireWeHere]

@@fishhookism I've thought about this also and wondered... Why isn't Rome covered in beautiful graffiti? Just adding an observational conclusion of stuff always working both ways, doesn't it?

[@markburrows1179]

It has been universally established as being Bipolar Disorder by extensive studied research of his biographers and the moods reflected in his work. Initially he was considered Schizophrenic but it just didn't add up. Suicide made it more realistic to Bipolar Disorder or at the time, manic depressive disorder.

[@connieleighton4375]

I really love your reactions and the fact that we don't have to explain to you who Vincent is is very encouraging lol can't tell you how many times I've watched people who don't have a clue. Such a beautiful song about a truly gifted but tortured soul...♡

[@ryanmitchener275]

This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you…. Wow! I tear up every time 😭

[@CharCanuck14]

An interesting fact about the painting Starry Night and a few others Van Gogh did while he was in the asylum. The swirls in these paintings mathematically mirror natural wind turbulence. How he knew, I guess we'll never know.

[@DiconDissectionalReactions]

Perhaps he used the Golden ratio subconsciously, or somehow know about it...

[@CharCanuck14]

@@DiconDissectionalReactions He was educated so there's a good possibility.

[@j.m.5917]

Congrats for doing a wonderful, insightful review of this beautiful, long beloved song. So we'll done!

[@Coolrockndad]

One of the most beautiful and yet saddest song ever written.

[@kathrynkissane5144]

Need some Simon and Garfunkel. 'The Boxer' 'Sound of Silence' '50 Ways to Leave Your Lover'

[@philipem1000]

The world was never meant for one as beautiful as you. To me that is the heart of the song.

[@jpeopolis]

Without fail, every time I hear those lyrics I feel myself fighting back tears. It perfectly-encapsulates my feeling's about a dear friend's suicide. He was a true genius and as compassionate as they come. As cliche as it sounds, this world didn't deserve him.

[@reactionswitherin5504]

“Perhaps they’ll listen now” and “this world was not meant for anyone as beautiful as you” are such powerful lines. Great reaction Daniel. You did great even though parts of it looked painful for you to listen to.

[@lynnrogers9236]

Interesting to me about this song, the lyrics are reflecting on the intense suffering and sadness that Vincent's mental distress, and inability to gain understanding, caused him. Intertwined with the idea of the odd disconnect we place upon suffering artists. We recognize the beauty of their art without also recognizing that there is then value and beauty in mentally challenged people. New subscriber today, belled and liked! - old musician from Seattle

[@franithleblanc4508]

My God ! What a insightful reaction to a very deep subject. I'm 71 hrs. old and and this was my favorite song back in the day. You've renewed my faith in the younger generation . You are very special !!!!!!!!

[@MissAstorDancer]

I am so thrilled to see you doing a reaction so quickly to this amazingly beautiful song! One of my regrets in life is that I never made sure to find a way to go to an art museum to see some of Vincent's (and other great painters') works on display! I did take "art" in high school, and excelled in the class, and even won a blue ribbon for a painting I did in acrylics, as part of the end-of-year art competition in my Junior year. -------- Regarding doing a reaction to "American Pie", my advice is that IF you decide to do it, just listen to it, and then just read the Wiki entry about it, and some stuff from song facts, but don't try to "analyze" it. Here's why: Every single line in the song is a reference, either blatant, or obscure, to something about life in the mid-50s, and through the the 60s - whether it be just references to the events of daily life of the average young person or teen, but mostly references to both musical, political and cultural events of the times. Even people who grew up in those years have struggled to identify some of the things described in the song. It is an epic song, and I know you will love it, both as a "history" lesson, and as art! Rock On, Daniel!

[@luiscasso9594]

Fifty years later and people still can't figure out what all the many lyrics to American Pie mean. Of course we all know what "the day the music died" refers to. Speaking of sad songs, there's not too many sadder songs than "At Seventeen" by Janis Ian because it's about her. The song won her a Grammy.

[@deme22255]

I knew right off. I am artist. Van Gogh was a very tormented individual.

[@annmitchell4663]

@@deme22255 I think he was referring to American Pie...it was about the death of Buddy Holly.

[@deme22255]

Luis Casso American Pie was about the day Buddy Holly died.

[@CdnGlobalCitzen]

One of the most affecting works of art you’ll ever see in your lifetime. Transformative.

[@moefeaux1442]

His work is definitely more appreciated now by those blessed enough to own some.

[@RichieRich20000]

Even by those of us who cannot afford to own one.

[@carolgarten-long7878]

Thank you for researching the songs you comment on. That means everything.

[@fredyoung9384]

His voice and mood brings you right back to the point in time, at that very second when he took his life.

[@justkaron]

He is appreciated now. His paintings go for 160 million plus. I live near Cincinnati and there's a massive traveling exhibit here now. Massive in scope and sheer size with his paintings projected on entire walls. You stand in rooms with walls glowing with his glorious colors.

[@kensmith8152]

We often see his pictures in reproduction, but nothing compares with seeing them up close! I was at MOMA in the late eighties and saw his exhibition. Wow!!!!!

[@peaceisnature]

Absolutely love your reaction to this song 💛

[@zoniekat]

Daniel, you should definitely do American Pie. It's full of music references that you will have to look up, but I'm sure you're up to it. I think it's right up your alley, and you'll have fun. So will we. People love American Pie.

[@handebarlas6248]

Drove my Chevy to the levy but the levy was dry...and good ol' boys drinkin' whisky and rye-thinkin' this will be the day that I'll die...English is not my native language but I memorised this at high school- the chorus is like a tongue -twister and the whole song is a lot of fun, to listen to and to sing!!

[@novanights2chevy597]

I was gonna say that maybe Daniel should wait a few months before tackling American Pie which kind of requires a background knowledge of 50s and 60s music. But his analysis is so thorough and his knowledge already of most of the prior artists referred to should do him well enough. It's just a lot to bite off and chew for anyone. But I think you're right that Daniel is probably up to the challenge.

[@Nonniewantsmore]

Everyone has to hear and sing "American Pie". You can't listen without singing along.

[@zoniekat]

@@novanights2chevy597 its just a suggestion. He just did Billy Joel's We Didn't Start The Fire. My only concern for Daniel is how busy he is. Though, i think your suggestion is better. I think you're right.

[@davidpeck9834]

I feel that Van Gogh painted the world that he wanted to live in, but couldn't. Thank you Don McLean, thank you Vincent Van Gogh for singing and painting the world that I would like to live in, too.

[@deadchannel3274]

I'd love to see you react to more Don McLean. If I were to suggest one, The Grave, off this same album. Really intense and emotional song.

[@tracycarroll3070]

Thank you, you are the first reactor that has known who Vincent was and and an overview of his life so understand the meaning of the song.

[@joanwharff6483]

I saw an interview with him &, he talked about reading the life story about Vincent...& thought there sho be a song about him. It’s a beautiful song. A lot of people call it “Starry, Starry Night”. His art is really appreciated today. There’s a wonderful museum in Amsterdam dedicated just to him! Been there, loved it !!!

[@verasileikis17]

Thank you for this review. My beloved brother exited this life 18 years ago and this song always helps me work through some of the sadness. There are very few people in this world that are not misunderstood at some point in their life and I hope that we can all try to become more compassionate as time goes on. Loving kindness is something we all possess and we can choose to be better to each other.

[@chiyohanson4622]

Have you ever seen a real Van Gogh in person very close up? It took my breath away. It was a painting of the hospital he was in at one time. It was so beautiful , it moved me. I was 13 yrs. old ,I will never forget it.😢❤ Don also sang Vincent in the Vincent museum in the Netherlands. You can see the vid on you tube.

[@lauramccool3400]

It's so incredibly moving. I fall in love every time. I don't know if it's the words, the man, the artist or all of it put into a song but I do know it is fall in love. At the end it is his end every time. I wish I could change that part but "as lover often do". Thanks. I've listened to two old favs of mine to his morning and I just found you.

[@susanpeterson9947]

This song was a favorite of mine years ago. Thank you for reacting to it and for choosing the video which showed some of his body of work.

[@georgewodicka4839]

Watching your last couple of videos on Sunday morning, not much I can add that hasn't been said. Fantastic choices last two days, a total pleasure Daniel.

[@malcolmdrake6137]

Part of the joy of this song is _discovering_ it's about Vincent...so, naturally, people decided to deprive you of that experience, because that's just the way humans are...

[@dinacox1971]

so interesting!!! You were a bit stumped with the word percolate...to bubble up...and it occurs to me that it was a more commonly used word with the immediate ability for the reader to visualize BECAUSE we made coffee with a percolator, also a relic (like me). LOL

[@steveandme63]

Heard 100+ times and ALWAYS tear up.. his voice, the guitar and the lovely words are incredible. Watching your face react to this music was a gift. Thank you.

[@loveandlight8533]

You're reaction to this, is so genuine and heartfelt 💖

[@sourisvoleur4854]

I was fortunate to go to the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam in 2019. Blown away; there's no other words to say.

[@JeromeDukes]

DM is a great song writer and lyricist, song is just a beautiful tribute. Daniel from an acoustic pov playing in the open chords, this song it a must to learn. For me it was learning the tricks of walking through chords and the little riffs to bring out the melody in my playing. By the way Rush's song in reference to suicide is "The Pass". I'm sure you get around to it on your Rush journey.

[@rockshot100]

Props to you to actually understand the lyrics before opining. You are young and that is rare, most "reactors" don't even bother to pronounce the titles properly. Say YOU wrote a song, but nobody would listen to it. That is how he felt, and he considered himself just like everybody else like the miners going to work, the farmers in the fields. That is why he painted so much. He considered it WORK, and his vocation. He COULD paint like the salons in Paris would approve of and even make himself famous. He knew that was just not HIM. So he did what he thought was right, that was to please and express himself, not copy some other style. His brother was an art dealer and their father was a preacher. The both knew exactly what was expected. Vincent wanted to show us what he saw when he looked at reality. After his brother died, it was the sister-in-law that showed his work and it caught on like fire. Don does a beautiful job of explaining him. One of my top ten of all time.

[@gail6384]

Thank you for your so thoughtful reaction. I’d stopped watching “Vincent” reactions because it I hated when reactors had no idea who the song was about. I tried again today - and found you. Thank you, thank you, thank you for being a thinker.

[@rigelmoon9030]

Songs like this humbled and chiseled me into a descent and compassionate human being. Thank you Vincent.

[@samhain1894]

I love this song soooo much. Thanks for your reaction. You are a sweet and sensitive young man.

[@stparisian]

OMGosh! YOU are the first reactor that FINALLY “got it”! ❤️❤️❤️

[@Myrdden71]

One great artist paying tribute to another great artist. Beautiful words, music, and painting. So very touching.

[@dennisjohndreher7258]

I still tear up when i hear this beautiful song

[@Steelers2116]

My brother suffers from schizophrenia and this song breaks my heart. I see him struggle for his sanity between reality and hallucinations. He is my hero.

[@kathylehman9393]

praying for your brother

[@Steelers2116]

@@kathylehman9393 Thank you ❤

[@jodidavis6595]

🥺

[@Joshuadgog]

and extra prayer for you brother.

[@Steelers2116]

@@Joshuadgog Thank you

[@georgewodicka4839]

Daniel, you made this so easy to be a repeated viewing, I feel the pain along with you every time. This, on a random dreary Monday morning, a small ray of sunshine always available with a couple of clicks.

[@ericandrews5108]

I really appreciate your in-depth reviews, great job.

[@JohnWesleyDowney]

I am so happy you listened to this song. I was eager to hear your reaction. This is a beautifully written song. Now I don't have to recommend it to you. I am glad other people here wanted to share this song with you as well. You have the intelligence, sensitivity and awareness to appreciate this extraordinary song paying tribute to an extraordinary artist. You didn't disappoint me but then again you never do. If there were more people in the world like you Daniel, the world would be a better place. By the way, a movie was made in the 1950s about Vincent, starring Kirk Douglas.

[@jmrx12]

Yes, "Lust For Life".

[@jgilbertify]

Don't ignore the fact that Don Mclean was an awesome songwriter... a Poet.... Beautiful lyrics

[@sheilaswegler4859]

If you ever get to see some of his paintings in person, you must go, in case something wonderful is there. It is different to see one in person. I was lucky enough to see a showing of privately owned paintings that went to only seven cities. I remember a self-portait of Van Gogh's face having some brush strokes that were a chartreuse green. It was amazing to me. You know how impressionist paintings are one thing when you are a little distant, and different when you are looking at the actual brushstrokes. Anyone that lives near Ft Worth, it was the Kimball museum. idk how they would get the shows they did, being so small, but keep track of what goes on there. Worth the drive sometimes.

[@snakelite61]

Once I got over how small Starry Night is, I've gone back to visit it several times. It's permanently on display at MOMA.

[@Hartlor_Tayley]

snakelite61 small paintings yes I was struck by that too. He painted down to the molecule. Incredible artist.

[@sharonm6262]

Once this pandemic is over and people can think about doing things like maybe going to Paris someday... then should you have the opportunity, the Van Gogh wing in the Musee D'Orsay is ... well, I lack the words. Definitely worth the trip. That's all I'll say.

[@garyharp7099]

Don McLean was super classic ...grew up with that one ... Glad you have found it... Luv your reactions

[@georgedowd5277]

...you fought back some serious emotions listening to this. Exactly the way this song affects me every time, for almost 50 years. I learned to play and sing this song when I was very young, also an art student in high school. Still, to this day, very rarely performed it without getting emotional. I appreciate your approach to digging for storyline about lyrics and Vincent, nicely done young Man.

[@dannysmuzic1807]

The song writer painting with words about an artist who sang with paintings. This is not just about Van Gogh, it's about McLean Its also about any artist who creates, or any appreciator of art...Its about you and me. If first you must feel before you can paint or write. What did Don have to feel to be able to say "Now I think I know"? To understand these paintings, this man? Mclean had to experience and understand depression, love lost and the reality, or possibility that nobody in his lifetime would here or appreciate his songs, his passion, his truth, his lifes work... Would he have to die before his songs are heard, like Vincent? Begore that certain love listened? Theres that infinite moment when we truly feel and listen to an artist and how they are trying to relate to us what we all need soo badly to relate to each other... Our grief, appreciation for beauty, our suffering, and love unrequited, lack of recognition, poverty, hope ... Are we listening to each other? Do we recognize the genius in each other? Art speaks to us in that elusive place, if we listen.

[@rhondathompson9189]

Just discovered you and one video, I'm hooked. You seem to be a thoughtful and sensitive young man and I feel you've added to the depth of the song for me. What a lovely gift. Thank you